Lagos is upgrading interstate travel with a new initiative that introduces a digital passenger manifest system and accredited parks, aiming to improve safety.
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation is set to revolutionise interstate travel with a new initiative.
The programme, announced by the state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, introduces a digital passenger manifest system and the accreditation of interstate parks to improve safety, efficiency, and reliability for travellers.
According to Osiyemi, the current paper-based passenger manifest system was inefficient, particularly in emergencies.
Therefore, the new digital platform will capture and store passenger information in real-time, ensuring quick access to accurate data when needed.
“The goal is to make interstate travel safer, more efficient, and more reliable,” he said.
Read Also: Nigeria To Harness Partnership With China As A Driver Of Industrialisation
In addition, the authorities will now accredit all interstate parks in Lagos.
Only those meeting safety and service standards will receive official certification, and these certified parks will display signage to reassure passengers they are boarding from a regulated and trusted facility.
However, unregulated “mushroom” parks, often found along roadsides, will need to improve their operations to comply with these standards.
Currently, authorities regulate 30 parks, and they are working to bring over 100 more into compliance.
The pilot phase is already underway in Ojota, with collaboration from park operators and transport unions.
Furthermore, CEO of Touch and Pay Technology, Olamide Afolabi, explained that agents would manage the digital system at the parks, ensuring a smooth experience for passengers.
Finally, Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Usman Teslim, expressed support, stating that the initiative would help create a more organised and efficient transport system in Lagos.
This project ultimately aims to create a safer, more reliable future for all road travellers in Lagos.
